What should you do if you experience signs of pregnancy?

We could also say that if you have early pregnancy symptoms, do this or that... But that would sound like we are talking about an illness. But of course, that is not the case at all. Pregnancy is a natural and wonderful state, even if we can expect discomfort from time to time.

When we are anxiously waiting to see if we have conceived a baby or not, we pay close attention to every little sign. We surf the internet to find out the truth before the test or the doctor can confirm the result. This is obvious, because we are waiting so long.

In this summary, we'll help you navigate the sea of ​​information. We'll look at the early signs of pregnancy, other accompanying symptoms later on, and when to take action. We'll also talk about how you can better avoid dangerous conditions.

Signs of fertilization and implantation

The first few days are about the fertilized egg reaching the uterus and then implanting. This process often has no symptoms.

But you may experience stabbing lower abdominal pain around the time of implantation. However, this could be a symptom before your period, or it could even indicate a urinary tract infection (although a telltale sign is that it hurts to pee).

Implantation may also be accompanied by spotting . This can be confused with the start of menstruation, but it is certainly not followed by heavy bleeding.

Some people may also experience a fever , but this can also be caused by a mild viral infection.

There are also many cases where a mother senses that she is having a baby before it can be detected in any way. (If you don't, don't worry, because this will not define your relationship with your child.)

The above are still very uncertain signs. They can be confused with many things.

If you suspect you are pregnant, it is of course worth avoiding alcohol, other harmful drinks and foods, and smoking. If you are taking any medication that is not recommended during pregnancy, be sure to consult your doctor from the beginning.

When it's time for the pregnancy test...

Today's pregnancy tests detect the hormone HCG produced by the embryo and then the placenta, which also appears in the urine.

It is worth testing a few days after your missed period. Follow the test instructions to find out exactly how many days later!

The first urine in the morning is best for this because it contains the highest levels of HCG.

If it is negative but your period still doesn't come, repeat the test in a few days.

If it's positive, of course, make an appointment with a gynecologist. When making an appointment, indicate the date of your last menstrual period. From there, they can determine how old the fetus is and when it's best to have an ultrasound.

The most certain way to detect it is through a medical examination, when the heart sounds can be detected.

Other signs of pregnancy

The more time passes, the more changes you will notice in yourself. Some will appear sooner, some later. Here are 10+1 common signs of pregnancy:

1. Breast tenderness: due to hormonal changes, your breasts may become more sensitive. You may feel them tightening at times, and their size may change. The nipple may become darker in color.

2. Cravings or even disgust: You may have a strong desire for certain foods, or an extreme disgust for others. You may begin to smell smells that were not previously noticeable, or if you did , you may perceive them in a heightened way. Some people believe that they have acquired a sense of smell like a dog.

You may also notice a different taste. (This could also be a symptom of COVID, but other signs can help distinguish the two conditions.)

Many expectant mothers experience morning sickness, while others experience it in the evening. It is not uncommon for someone to have it all day long. If you feel this way, take comfort in the fact that the increased progesterone levels are responsible for the slowed digestion and unpleasant symptoms, but this is in the best interest of the baby: maintaining the pregnancy. If you do not have such symptoms, you do not need to fear miscarriage, as this condition is completely unique to each individual. It can even vary from one woman to another during different pregnancies.

4. Constipation, bloating: Slow digestion can cause constipation and bloating. You can help this by eating fiber-rich foods, fruits, and vegetables. For example, psyllium husk can also be a good option in these cases.

Important: if you vomit several times a day, or if you feel like you are vomiting almost everything, you need immediate medical attention to avoid dehydration.

5. Fatigue: Your body is focused on taking care of your baby, so you will need to rest more often. This can be difficult for a 21st century working woman, but it is a completely natural process that serves the baby's health.

6. Mood swings: we are more sensitive at this time, it's a fact. You can help this by taking time to recharge: a good book, movie or music can make a big difference in your state of mind (they shouldn't be upsetting). But it could also be that you just need a short walk or a good conversation. Whatever it is, don't feel sorry for yourself, or rather, yourself. They say that if you feel good, the baby will be good too.

However, if that doesn't work out, don't beat yourself up about it. If you want to cry, let the tears flow, allow yourself to process what needs to be processed.

You don't have to keep your feelings to yourself, but it's worth striving for a positive state of mind. We heartily recommend Prof. Dr. Emőke Bagdy's series of lectures titled Psychofitness on achieving mental well-being.

7. Frequent urination: As your belly grows, you will have the urge to urinate more frequently, as more pressure is placed on your bladder. In addition, due to the increased blood volume, the amount of urine also increases (it is secreted from the blood by the kidneys).

8. Shortness of breath: this is especially typical for the later stages, when your belly is already big and it is harder to move. At this time, you may feel like you are not getting enough air. In this case, it is also worth slowing down, resting, breathing deeper, and relaxing. If you cannot solve it due to some health problem, you should call for urgent medical help, as the baby also needs oxygen.

9. Headache: Pregnancy can also cause headaches. If this happens, it is worth checking your blood pressure, although in many cases high blood pressure is not the cause of headaches. During pregnancy, blood pressure is more likely to increase . If this value is higher than usual, then definitely see your doctor, because this can be dangerous. But there is no need to panic, your doctor will be able to prescribe medication that you can take safely during pregnancy.

Whatever medication you plan to take, be sure to consult your doctor first! Only use painkillers that are safe to use during pregnancy if necessary.

10. Vaginal discharge: the amount of vaginal discharge may change, it may be more. This is not a problem. However, if it has an unpleasant odor, a strange (yellowish, brownish, or even greenish) color, or you feel itchy, then consult a gynecologist. All of this may indicate an infection, which must be treated. During pregnancy, the immune system of many people is a little weaker, so pay extra attention to hygiene. If you are prone to urinary tract or vaginal infections, choose a shower instead of a bath, and use gentle intimate washes with the appropriate pH to protect the mucous membrane instead of shower gel or soap.

11. Nasal congestion: during a cold season, it can be especially unpleasant to have your nose become blocked and your nasal mucosa swell more easily. Using a saline nasal spray can help alleviate this situation.

Do this if your health deteriorates

During pregnancy, many people experience an increased risk of catching infections and viruses. The immune system may be weaker during this time. In addition, the risk of developing insulin resistance and high blood pressure may increase. The functioning of the thyroid gland may also change.

Your blood sugar levels will definitely be tested during pregnancy, and your blood pressure will also be checked during the tests. If you suspect something is wrong at home, you should definitely consult a doctor, but don't panic. If the problem is discovered, you will also have a solution for how to improve your condition and keep your baby safe.

This is how you can maintain your health

What you can do to prevent problems is to avoid excessive consumption of refined carbohydrates (white flour, sugar). In such cases, it is difficult to resist a delicious cookie. If you really want it, choose fruit-seed alternatives that are free of added sugars! This will also provide you with vitamins and minerals. We do not recommend artificial sweeteners, as their effects on the baby and you may be uncertain.

Of course, gorging on fast food is not the best solution either. Instead of processed foods, try to immerse yourself in the world of more home-cooked, natural foods .

If your doctor has not ordered you to rest in bed, then definitely include walking and light, non-jumping, non-stressful exercise. Prenatal exercises and prenatal yoga can be especially beneficial.

Don't worry about small signs and problems, but don't take them lightly either. Prepare cheerfully for the arrival of your baby. Although you don't know at first whether you're having a boy or a girl, it's still nice to look at the baby cradle with a dreamy feeling...

If you already know what gender your baby will be, it's time to buy clothes. Don't just look at how they look, but also make sure they are made of quality materials and are as comfortable as possible for your baby. This will make them feel better. This will also affect their sleep quality and mood.

If you don't want to buy each piece individually, we highly recommend the extra soft bamboo baby clothes packages .

Have you experienced any unusual symptoms during your pregnancy? If so, we'd love for you to tell us about them in the comments.